Comments - Fantastic depiction of the seven-year-old Kusunoki Tamonmaru Masatsura and his companion Chikudomaru killing a badger that had taken the form of a lay priest. Masatsura draws back his sword with both hands, his feet spread firmly apart as he prepares to attack the evil creature while Chikudomaru holds a lantern high. At upper right, the priest grimaces at them with rage, his eyes bulging, his true animal form revealed in the tail and paws emerging from beneath the blind. Cherry blossom petals drift down over the night sky as the blind flutters in the breeze. A terrific, early supernatural design by Kuniyoshi and the first time we've seen this subject.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 10"

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Horizontal centerfold. Large loss, a few holes and thinning spots, repaired. Wrinkling, slight rubbing. Please see photos for details.